How to Check Tire Tread Depth

How do I check tire tread wear? It’s a common question we hear at Anderson Ford Bullhead City. Staying on top of tire care is an absolute must for safe driving in Golden Valley and Laughlin, NV. This includes ensuring that your tires have enough tread depth. Wondering how to check tire tread depth? It’s actually quite simple. We’ll show you how to check tire tread depth in several quick and convenient ways. Let’s get started.

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

When you purchase a new set of tires, the tread depth will usually be somewhere around 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Winter tires and tires designed for off-roading purposes likely have deeper treads. When should you replace your tires? According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, when your tires reach a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace them. At this tread depth or less, they are not safe for Mohave Valley roads.

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

How do I check tire tread depth? All you need is a penny! Here’s how the penny test works:

1. Insert the penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. Check if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tread depth is 2/32 of an inch or less. We recommend replacing your tires as soon as possible.
4. Repeat this process on each tire and in several locations on every tire.

Additional Ways to Check Tire Tread Depth

The penny test is not the only way to check tire tread depth.

• Tread Depth Gauge: Insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove and press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire.
• Tread Wear Bars: Most tires have tread wear indicator bars built into them. You will find these at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations on the tires. If the bars are flush with the surrounding tire ribs, the tread depth has decreased to 2/32 of an inch.

Ensure Proper Tire Care with Anderson Ford Bullhead City

Now that you know how to check tire tread depth, you may have additional questions about tire care or know it’s time to replace your tires. We can help. Contact us today for more information or set up an appointment.